Arc Southwest is committed to providing public policy information and updates to its members and communities. As part of our long-term mission, we want to stay involved at the grassroots level in moving public policy forward regarding issues related to people with intellectual disabilities. In doing so, we stay connected to the needs of the people we support and encourage active participation on the part of all within our region and within the wider disability movement. Staying informed and aware is a major way that public policy changes as well as active participation through storytelling, attending legislative forums, scheduled Days at the Capitol, and meeting with your legislators.
TOGETHER our voice is stronger!
Correcting Misconceptions About The Budget: How You Can Help
Arc of Minnesota has been instrumental in helping our effort to publicize the cuts in the House and Senate Health and Human Services bills and the harm they would cause families. Arc Minnesota got great TV coverage in the Twin Cities.
While many Minnesotans saw this news coverage, apparently some of our state legislators didn't. They still claim that the House and Senate bills protect vulnerable people and their families and don't contain cuts to disabilities supports like waivered services.
We know otherwise. There are real cuts in these bills that cause real harm to real individuals and families. Our legislators need to hear not only your stories of how the cuts will impact you, but they need to hear exactly what those cuts are.
There are plenty of examples in either (or both) bills that you can share with them. Here are a few:
A complete freeze on new waivered services. The previous Legislature and Governor Pawlenty allowed for at least a few new openings to serve a few of the thousands now waiting for services.
A cut in waiver funding to counties that covered expenses for unexpected increases in needs.
No more coverage for adults on Medical Assistance for physical, occupational, or speech therapies.
No more coverage for these same adults for basics like eyeglasses, dentures, and prosthetics.
No more money for alternative services for those losing their personal care assistance this July.
A 20% cut in the wages paid to people who provide PCA services to their family member.
All our legislators need to understand the consequences of their votes. With your story and the above facts, you can show them what their votes mean. Keep sharing your story; keep giving them facts.
The following are links to other sites associated with the Arc Southwest.
